How to use darker shades, from the rooms they suit best to colours that work best.
When it comes to choosing paint colours, it can feel daunting to go any darker than the merest hint of colour. Neutrals obviously have their place, but there’s real impact to be had from leaning into richer, lusher tones.
We asked Katie Walker, Colour Expert at Colourtrend to give us her tips for incorporating bolder shades into our home. She points out that deeper colours are perfect for creating some of the most common moods people want to achieve in their homes.
“Dark colours can bring a sense of cosiness, tranquillity, and sophistication to a space,” she says. “They provide a perfect retreat where you can relax and unwind. In recent months, we have seen a growing trend of people embracing darker colours and experimenting with more impactful aesthetics.
“Moving away from ubiquitous neutrals, these bolder hues are being incorporated into both contemporary and traditional schemes, resulting in chic spaces that feel like an escape at home. I would encourage people to embrace the versatility and impact of darker paint colours. They have the power to transform your home into a haven of style, sophistication, and relaxation.”
Although these colours can work in any room, are there any in particular that they are suited to? “Darker colours work particularly well in living rooms, bedrooms, or cosy snugs,” Katie advises. “These areas should exude a warm and restful atmosphere, and darker paint colours help achieve exactly that.”
And these shades aren’t only suited to large spaces. “Even small rooms can benefit from the dark paint treatment, as it creates a bold statement and adds richness and depth,” Katie explains.
“For example, a deep purple with brown undertones like Raglan Road can infuse a small space with warmth and cosiness. In larger rooms, darker paint colours can create a more intimate environment by bringing the space in and enveloping the room in a quiet calm.”
Even if we like the idea of a darker shade, opening up a colour card leaves us with so many options it can be hard to choose. Katie says to think about the effect you want to achieve.
“Colours with warm undertones, such as organic greens or deep rich reds, create a cocooning atmosphere. On the other hand, starker colours like blacks or deep greys can produce a more dramatic and chic effect. Dressage, a striking black, can be used to create a contemporary look and contrast with accent colours in the space.
“For a softer alternative, a deep blue with warm undertones like Mussel can create an inviting and subdued effect. Colourtrend’s paints are developed to provide the highest quality, ensuring a consistent, beautifully even finish and vibrancy of colour, which is particularly vital when working with dark shades.”
Traditionally, darker shades would be combined with contrasting features such as skirting boards. “However, for a truly dramatic effect and to evoke a sense of cocooning” Katie says, “consider colour drenching. This involves painting all wall surfaces, including doors, architraves, skirting boards, and cornicing, in the same shade. We’re even seeing this trend extend to the ceilings to maximise the cosy and intimate effect.
“Of course, darker shades can also be used alongside bright whites to create contrast with skirting boards and door frames, lightening the overall effect. Ultimately, the choice depends on your desired aesthetic and the atmosphere you wish to create in your space.”
This article was originally published in December 2023.
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